Are you a foodie with a passion for history? If so, you’re in for a treat! These iconic Florida restaurants have stood the test of time, serving up delicious meals alongside fascinating stories that span decades.
Florida has a rich history filled with pirates, colorful characters, and adventurous souls, and these restaurants have been feeding them all. From humble beginnings as lunch counters to operating as speakeasies and illegal casinos, each establishment has a unique tale to tell.
Despite facing numerous challenges over the years, they continue to attract locals and visitors alike with their mouthwatering dishes and captivating histories.
Let’s take a trip through time and explore five of Florida’s most historic restaurants:
1. Columbia Restaurant, Ybor City (Est. 1905): What started as a small saloon for cigar workers in Tampa’s Ybor City has now become Florida’s oldest and largest Spanish restaurant.
Spanning five generations, Columbia Restaurant offers traditional Spanish and Cuban cuisine in a sprawling 52,000-square-foot space. Don’t miss the regular flamenco shows!
2. Joe’s Stone Crab, Miami Beach (Est. 1913): Founded as a modest lunch counter in 1913, Joe’s Stone Crab has evolved into an award-winning dining destination.
Famous for its Florida stone crab claws served with signature mustard sauce, this iconic restaurant has hosted politicians, actors, and athletes over the years.
3. Cap’s Place, Lighthouse Point (Est. 1928): Originally a speakeasy, casino, and restaurant, Cap’s Place holds the title of Broward County’s oldest restaurant.
Rum runners turned restaurateurs Cap and Lola Knight created a rustic haven known for its fresh seafood and unique ambiance. Even Winston Churchill and Franklin D. Roosevelt dined here during secret war conferences in 1942!
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4. No Name Pub, Big Pine Key (Est. 1936): With a colorful past that includes stints as a general store, bait and tackle shop, and even a brothel, No Name Pub has been a beloved Keys hangout since the 1930s. Today, it’s famous for its original recipe pizza and walls adorned with thousands of dollar bills.
5. Jerry’s Drive-In, Pensacola (Est. 1939): Since its opening in 1939, Jerry’s Drive-In has been serving up Southern homestyle cooking with a side of nostalgia. Originally known as Jerry’s Barbeque, this restaurant has retained its vintage charm, offering customers a taste of the past with every bite.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking for a delicious meal, these historic Florida restaurants are sure to satisfy both your appetite and curiosity.
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